tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38907998428936749402024-03-04T21:32:45.952-08:00Michael Mullmulti-instrumentalist, composer, teacher, and human beingMichael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.comBlogger116125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-61944315575289221312015-01-18T12:12:00.000-08:002015-01-18T12:12:00.371-08:00Pre-Sale Ticket Discount for Orenda AnniversaryIf you pre-order your tickets for the upcoming Orenda Records 1st Anniversary Festival on January 30th and 31st, you can get $5 off the ticket price! <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/orenda-records-1st-anniversary-festival-tickets-14952369941" target="_blank">Click here to pre-order tickets for one or both nights</a>.<br />
<br />
The Michael Mull Octet is closing the first night, January 30th, with a set of all new music. Brand new artwork by <a href="http://www.eronrauch.com/" target="_blank">Eron Rauch</a> will be up, including much about the process of designing each album, including mine! You'll be able to see some of what was behind the incredible album art for <i>Source Code</i>. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/290291217828677/" target="_blank">Full details are on the FB event</a>. In the meantime, bang your head:<br />
<br />
<br />
<iframe seamless="" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=126278595/size=large/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/tracklist=false/artwork=small/track=3022531761/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 100%;"><a href="http://orendarecords.bandcamp.com/album/source-code">Source Code by Michael Mull Octet</a></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-43189911097614441262015-01-04T12:34:00.001-08:002015-01-04T12:37:07.972-08:00mm8tet @ Orenda Records Anniversary Show<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2NC95qTK65PgPV_Ldn3d_Bzqjtqu8i4Hh8spaZHLmioIA4bF7VGZxFYpn1Y2_aTyEPAnxQg76l5HZdC90SF4y0uJrLHFL6vMbDJ_qr-L60oiEKjAl2SjbImo9nAvLyeKH276WgEEWHDD/s1600/OrendaAnnivPoster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV2NC95qTK65PgPV_Ldn3d_Bzqjtqu8i4Hh8spaZHLmioIA4bF7VGZxFYpn1Y2_aTyEPAnxQg76l5HZdC90SF4y0uJrLHFL6vMbDJ_qr-L60oiEKjAl2SjbImo9nAvLyeKH276WgEEWHDD/s1600/OrendaAnnivPoster.jpg" height="640" width="512" /></a></div>
As we all know, a year can pass by quickly in a blur of happenings. One wonderful happening of 2014 was the founding of <a href="http://www.orendarecords.com/" target="_blank">Orenda Records</a> by trumpeter/composer Dan Rosenboom. Orenda has been laying down deep roots in LA's creative music scene all year long, and already has an impressive catalogue of releases; it was an honor to release the <a href="http://orendarecords.bandcamp.com/album/source-code" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet album <i>Source Code</i></a> on the label on 12/4/14.
<br />
<br />
<iframe seamless="" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=126278595/size=small/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/track=2230745750/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 42px; width: 100%;"><a href="http://orendarecords.bandcamp.com/album/source-code">Source Code by Michael Mull Octet</a></iframe>
<br />
To celebrate a musically adventurous and prolific year, there will be two consecutive nights of music from Orenda artists on January 30th and 31st at Blue Whale. Each artist is cooking up a short set of brand new music just for this event, so if you like to be in the "I heard it first" club, this is prime-time for you! More details on the groups as we near, but the short list is below (along with the incredible poster by <a href="http://www.eronrauch.com/" target="_blank">Eron Rauch</a>). You can also check out more info on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/OrendaRecords" target="_blank">Facebook</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/290291217828677/" target="_blank">January 30th</a>: Jon Armstrong, Jonathan Rowden, Cathlene Pineda, Michael Mull Octet<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/490692657739442/" target="_blank">January 31st</a>: Kubilay Uner, Gavin Templeton, Alexander Noice, Dan Rosenboom<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-84033462814696858582014-11-25T00:19:00.000-08:002014-11-25T00:19:17.268-08:00mm8tet "Source Code" Release + Preview TrackOh bloggy, I didn't mean to neglect you! Much exciting news revolving the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> album <i>Source Code</i>. It will be released one week after Thanksgiving, on Thursday, December 12th, with an accompanying release concert at Curve Line Space in Eagle Rock. Details below the incredible album cover art by <a href="http://www.eronrauch.com/" target="_blank">Eron Rauch</a>, the "everything art/photo/design guy" at <a href="http://www.orendarecords.com/" target="_blank">Orenda Records</a>. Feast your eyes while you slake your ears on "Lonestar" from the upcoming release.<br />
<br />
<iframe seamless="" src="https://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=126278595/size=small/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/track=3285495613/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 42px; width: 100%;"><a href="http://orendarecords.bandcamp.com/album/source-code">Source Code by Michael Mull Octet</a></iframe>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigckiC5AS0F6MX6SwlaEyDsRzsj_MbKCCSuKlEOYMKwzNY3Q2pSuRFuv65JO80itmtZiEqXh85MxcvysyyvbH-f2g_UMD4nTJkwfSx1XVjf_fjDFVYRzNL6pithx5NkukTdbTcF8LaZ-6E/s1600/sourcecode+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigckiC5AS0F6MX6SwlaEyDsRzsj_MbKCCSuKlEOYMKwzNY3Q2pSuRFuv65JO80itmtZiEqXh85MxcvysyyvbH-f2g_UMD4nTJkwfSx1XVjf_fjDFVYRzNL6pithx5NkukTdbTcF8LaZ-6E/s1600/sourcecode+cover.jpg" height="353" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Michael Mull Octet SOURCE CODE Album Release</b><br />
<b>Thursday, December 4th</b><br />
8:00pm, two sets<br />
Curve Line Space<br />
1577 Colorado Blvd, LA 90041<br />
$10, all ages<br />
light refreshments provided<br />
<b>CDs discounted for $10 at the concert only!</b></div>
Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-19554035403060552882014-08-09T18:04:00.000-07:002014-08-09T18:04:09.600-07:00Guest Post: Alex Pinto on Improving Your Scene<i>This is the first "guest post" I've done on this blog; seems like something I could run with to help spread some ideas and outlooks from my fellow musicians. I met guitarist <a href="http://www.alexpintoguitar.com/" target="_blank">Alex Pinto</a> during my first year at CalArts, and he is currently studying in India on a Fullbright scholarship. Here he writes some clear, practical suggestions for ways that both artists and fans can help improve their jazz scene. </i><br />
<i>- MM</i><br />
<br />
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
Jazz is in a great place. I’ll love it forever, kind of like Metallica. I don’t care what people say - the noodling IS where it’s at, getting lost in a free form is invigorating and the the music has produced some of the greatest composers and improvisers from the past 100 years.<br />
Can it improve or change? Sure! Some gentle suggestions:</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
<b>1) Have opening acts</b><br />
I can’t remember the last time I went to see a jazz show at a hall or festival where there was an opening act. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that happen. Having opening acts would be a great way to introduce that next wave of talent that people lament doesn’t exist. It’s a way for younger acts to interact with the mega stars of today and is a simple way to infuse some energy into the community. This is a tried and true format in pretty much every other genre of music. Jazz can try it too.</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
<b>2) Skew younger</b><br />
Young people are inspired by other young people doing cool things. Lots of people get into playing in band because they saw their friends playing in a band or people like them playing in a band. It wouldn’t hurt to have younger acts get more exposure at the big festivals (maybe opening for them - see point 1) and inspire a new generation of musicians and listeners. Let young people have some ownership in where the music is going too, by getting them involved in its programming.</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
<b>3) Can it be cheaper?</b><br />
Lots of shows are pretty expensive. How about some cheaper alternatives?</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
<b>4) Go local</b><br />
There is jazz happening outside of NYC. It seems daunting at times to be a jazz artist not living there. Reviews will at times even suggest that such and such band is the best NYC sounding band in such and such town. Every town can have its own sound. There is great music being made in Seattle, LA, Montreal, Delhi and beyond. There are writers and photographers and blogs that can support and document the great music made in those places. Audiences will have a more earnest and easier time connecting with talent that is from their area. Food is local, art is local. Jazz can go local too.</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
<b>5) More video</b><br />
Youtube is, for better or for worse, where music discover is happening. Let’s get some more cool videos out there! Remember this (embedded below) -<a href="http://vimeo.com/46040485" rel="nofollow" style="color: #3b5998; cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://vimeo.com/46040485</a> THAT WAS AWESOME. Let’s have more. Even though that was on vimeo, it still used video to promote the music and get listeners excited.</div>
<div style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 6px;">
Bashing jazz is an easy way out. Having constructive solutions and following through on them is the hard part. But these little adjustments, and what other come up with, can make a huge difference.</div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="253" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/46040485" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="450"></iframe> <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/46040485">MEHLIANA featuring Brad Mehldau and Mark Guiliana 06.06.12 Stone, NYC</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/bradmehldau">Brad Mehldau</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>. Video by <a href="http://www.bucketsmovingcompany.com/" target="_blank">Alex Chaloff</a>.Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-16078914719386267252014-08-07T13:31:00.000-07:002014-08-07T13:31:46.644-07:00LAJC Summer Fest 8/23-8/24As the summer burns past in multiple ways, I realize that a highly-anticipated event is coming our way in a matter of weeks. I'm pleased and excited to announce that I will be performing in the <a href="http://www.lajazzcollective.org/" target="_blank">Los Angeles Jazz Collective</a> Summer Festival at the <a href="http://bluewhalemusic.com/" target="_blank">Blue Whale</a>. The festival is taking place on Saturday 8/23 and Sunday 8/24, including multiple projects each night. See below for the full lineup (click to enlarge):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR0POFlH5Sd89aUUz8xmfM9DnPHrHhOhnuJggWqb1NORRrvH9f05kbs1dQHJe9Rsdo3gbkGqQ7Se7eg5L0MIoy2ETo1bf_OfWFG9H0-hckLRhPOcw-pfeLnnTOvVDAaBHDdpVGeKoo5ah/s1600/LAJC+summer+fest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyR0POFlH5Sd89aUUz8xmfM9DnPHrHhOhnuJggWqb1NORRrvH9f05kbs1dQHJe9Rsdo3gbkGqQ7Se7eg5L0MIoy2ETo1bf_OfWFG9H0-hckLRhPOcw-pfeLnnTOvVDAaBHDdpVGeKoo5ah/s1600/LAJC+summer+fest.jpg" height="400" width="297" /></a></div>
<br />
As you can see, the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> will be closing out the festival on Sunday night, 8/24. I am working on a brand new arrangement to debut for this performance. As you <i>can't</i> see, I'm going to also be playing Saturday night, joining the <a href="http://mattotto.org/" target="_blank">Matt Otto</a> Group for a set of his original music. I have been a huge fan of Matt since I first heard him, not long after I moved to LA, and I am honored to play in his group, which will also include Gary Fukushima, Steve Cotter, Darek Oles and Mark Ferber - what a band! Matt has been living in Kansas City, MO for a while now, so this will be a relatively rare chance to hear him.<br />
<br />
Hope to see many of you there at the Whale!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-81361543985425086352014-06-30T11:40:00.000-07:002014-06-30T11:40:36.234-07:00Orkestar MEZE next Friday 7/11It's hard to believe it is almost July…until you step outside and get cooked. After another two productive days of recording for the new <a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">Mahadev</a> album this past weekend, it's time for me to channel my inner funky peasant and get ready for an <a href="http://www.orkestarmeze.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> show at a brand new venue (for us), the Pig 'n Whistle in Hollywood!<br />
<br />
Along with the grooviest Peasant Funk you could ever hope to dance to, this event will feature authentic Bulgarian food (served from 10pm) and rakia (Bulgarian moonshine) served at the bar in addition to all your other favorite drinks - true Peasant Party style. Of course, we will do our signature belly-dancing contest as well, so be ready to shake it!<br />
<br />
<b>Orkestar MEZE Peasant Party in Hollywood</b><br />
Friday, July 11th<br />
Pig 'n Whistle<br />
6714 Hollywood Blvd.<br />
Hollywood, CA 90028<br />
$10 cash at the door<br />
21+<br />
Doors at 9:30pm<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/287784164727453/" target="_blank">RSVP on Facebook</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUYAumngVOev102h8JYO8zsZJFi4dDR_Va-LbJ3mbR2gtkoa0HoG2FxHCK_enGy_0b6GTDtlbUEy7Rp6LBL_vQuJYu46i4_c6nDwk_xu3YpvrN8VFuc0XLbzfMBO79EfHw3TqxLWWnrqK/s1600/meze.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihUYAumngVOev102h8JYO8zsZJFi4dDR_Va-LbJ3mbR2gtkoa0HoG2FxHCK_enGy_0b6GTDtlbUEy7Rp6LBL_vQuJYu46i4_c6nDwk_xu3YpvrN8VFuc0XLbzfMBO79EfHw3TqxLWWnrqK/s1600/meze.jpg" height="208" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-32635129345099099132014-06-14T22:20:00.000-07:002014-06-14T22:20:06.544-07:00Recording ProjectsThe past two days have seen the first recording sessions of what will become <a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">Mahadev</a>'s sophomore release. I have been involved in Mahadev since it's inception by bandleader Dave Cipriani in 2011, and through several changes in size and lineup over the years, the band continues to evolve. Like so many musical projects these days, Mahadev is difficult to describe without either using blanket generalizations or far too many words strung together - suffice to say it draws from multiple traditional music cultures from around the world and filters them through the members' individual interpretations, styles, and personal study.<br />
Blogger is not currently letting me embed the player, so <a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/track/eastern-promise" target="_blank">click here to check out a track from the first Mahadev album</a>. You can stream the rest of the album as well. <br />
<br />
I'm into the mastering stages for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> album, with initial passes on two of the songs. They both are sounding really solid already, so aside from a few potential tweaks, I'm going to be saving up some cash to send the rest off soon! The rough plan at the moment is to try to release the album sometime this Fall, so stay tuned.<br />
<br />
Lastly, the second Orkestar MEZE album is also slowly coming to be, with mixing underway and some ridiculously fat sounds happening! We are definitely bringing the peasantry, but with an extra thick slathering of funk and soul this time around. We're talking SPF 100. We have a potential July show in the works, so keep an eye on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/orkestarMEZE" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and/or <a href="http://peasantfunk.com/">peasantfunk.com</a>.<br />
<br />
I count myself very fortunate to be involved in such adventurous and musically fulfilling projects, especially with such a wide range of style, dynamics, and personalities...keeping me on my toes and giving me plenty of practice material!<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-34138712907349895052014-05-26T23:09:00.002-07:002014-06-14T21:35:40.897-07:00Mix'dThe mixing stage of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> album is complete…listening through some right now and I am so excited for this release and proud of the amazing musicianship of my bandmates. The dynamic and emotional range of the tracks promises to be a layered and multilevel experience.<br />
<br />
Thank you again to all you IndieGoGo supporters, and thank you for your patience. It is a long process to complete any major work, but it is very important to me that what I release is the best it can possibly be for you all.<br />
<br />
Next up: mastering, artwork and design. More updates soon, stay in touch and if you haven't already, give the Michael Mull Octet a "like" <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">on Facebook</a> if you please.Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-65878486584436666952014-04-07T14:01:00.000-07:002014-04-07T14:01:20.562-07:00Vinny Golia Large Ensemble 4/9/14Played an incredibly fun, sold-out show with <a href="http://www.peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> on Friday at <a href="http://www.goldenroad.la/" target="_blank">Golden Road Brewery</a> in LA. Great crowd, great beer and food, and tons of new music...the proceeds will help us to finish our new album, which will hopefully be out this Summer. You can check out some pics by visiting this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.664066316961733.1073741838.135386989829671&type=1" target="_blank">link to MEZE's Facebook page</a>. We will definitely be putting on some more shows at Golden Road, so if you couldn't make this one, keep your eyes open for the next one and get those tix before they sell out!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Sz7S0rES7-_4ocBHUxdWWTGUzzKmhAx5-b6koDje87jOxdqKj-lfMtQxz-V3imNG71SuxTearEqwK8LfYiYQ0hT_t0LLovldgpI5zc09uvzZo4PJup8GT29hy_ToJ9_goqn70PIirIGS/s1600/vinny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Sz7S0rES7-_4ocBHUxdWWTGUzzKmhAx5-b6koDje87jOxdqKj-lfMtQxz-V3imNG71SuxTearEqwK8LfYiYQ0hT_t0LLovldgpI5zc09uvzZo4PJup8GT29hy_ToJ9_goqn70PIirIGS/s1600/vinny.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vinny Golia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On Wednesday, April 9 I'm honored to be joining the <a href="http://www.redcat.org/event/vinny-golia" target="_blank">Vinny Golia Large Ensemble</a> at the REDCAT Theater in downtown LA. I have been able to play a couple of times at REDCAT (attached to Disney Hall) and it is a fantastic venue. More importantly, performing with Vinny is always a unique pleasure and challenge; he was one of my mentors when I attended CalArts, and a huge part of my development as a clarinet/bass clarinet player. I will be playing clarinet on Wednesday in his Large Ensemble, an amazing semi-orchestral group of over 40 musicians, with Vinny at the helm playing a multitude of woodwinds and the great Marc Lowenstein conducting. You can find all the information <a href="http://www.redcat.org/event/vinny-golia" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-26064115203323513882014-03-19T14:35:00.002-07:002014-03-19T14:35:53.578-07:00Many ThanksThe <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-michael-mull-octet-record-an-album" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet crowdfunding campaign</a> has ended and we ended up exceeding our goal…the session was followed by a whirlwind couple of weeks, so I wanted to take a moment and write here on the blog a belated but enormous THANK YOU! Those of you who follow on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/michaelmulloctet" target="_blank">Facebook</a> may have already been inundated with this, but I am truly beyond grateful to all the support we received to kick the project into gear.<br />
<br />
The session went incredibly well, even better than I could have hoped, and I am going back to the studio to begin mixing this Friday. There are still many steps and many hours ahead, but I will have this album finished and ready as soon as possible without sacrificing an ounce of quality. Still settling in on artwork/design ideas, as well as a name for the album…stay tuned.<br />
<br />
Speaking of new albums, Orkestar MEZE is returning for a monstrous party in a few weeks, on Friday, April 4th - we are posting up at the Golden Road Brewery for a funky dance party fueled by the freshest beer in LA! I'll post more details soon, but that should be enough info for now…you can get <b>presale tickets for only $10</b> on our website: <a href="http://orkestarmeze.com/concerts/">http://orkestarmeze.com/concerts/</a>. This one is going to sell out fast (already over 70 peasants attending!) so grab your ticket while you can!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-38413254858505946052014-02-27T13:39:00.000-08:002014-02-27T13:39:03.758-08:00Into the Studio TomorrowThe <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> is heading into the studio to begin recording our debut album! We are honored and excited to have so much support so far for our <a href="http://www.igg.me/at/mm8tet" target="_blank">IndieGoGo campaign</a>, and <b>the project is 76% funded</b>. The campaign continues until next Wednesday night 3/5, so if you haven't reserved your copy, now is the time! Visit <a href="http://www.igg.me/at/mm8tet">www.igg.me/at/mm8tet</a> to donate and share.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/C-yfC8gNKig" width="425"></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-51118046827522363072014-02-12T15:12:00.000-08:002014-02-12T15:12:24.780-08:00Trio at Vitello's 2/16/14In the midst of all this <a href="http://igg.me/at/mm8tet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet madness</a>, I'm pleased to take a quick detour this Sunday 2/16 to play a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/michaelmulltrio" target="_blank">Trio</a> set Upstairs at Vitello's in Studio City at 8pm. This is a really nice venue overall; great sound, warm-vibey room, and tasty Italian food (I recommend especially the flat, crispy pizzas or desserts).<br />
<br />
I had played at Vitello's a few times <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5Tm1x39r6o" target="_blank">with the Trio</a> and other groups around 2009, and more recently with Connor McElwain, and I'm excited bring in a new configuration of the Trio, specifically for this show. As usual, I'll be playing alto saxophone and bass clarinet, and will be joined by Cameron Hicks on drums. On Sunday we will be joined by tuba player Stefan Kac, covering the bass chair for Ben Shepherd. Stefan is an amazing player that will get you re-thinking the tuba.<br />
<br />
<b>Michael Mull Trio feat. Stefan Kac (tuba)</b><br />
<b>Sunday, February 16th</b><br />
Upstairs at Vitello's<br />
4349 Tujunga Ave, Studio City<br />
<br />
8pm, one long set<br />
$15 cover + 2 item minimum (food or drink), at the door or <a href="http://www.ticketweb.com/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=4070994" target="_blank">presale</a><br />
All Ages<br />
Valet parking available, or plenty in the surrounding neighborhoods<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/740209936013565/" target="_blank">RSVP on Facebook</a><br />
<br />
Come see us put it all together on Sunday night! If you haven't heard the Trio before, you can play the video below of my composition "Israfel", performed at Barclay's Coffee and Tea in Northridge.<br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eIJ07FtI3ug" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-50800170590778713212014-02-11T12:24:00.002-08:002014-02-11T12:24:44.249-08:00IndieGoGo Update Video #1Hi everyone, forgot to post this here. Here's an update to <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-michael-mull-octet-record-an-album/x/311579" target="_blank">our crowdfunding campaign</a> (via IndieGoGo) to raise money for recording the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> album! Please share with your friends and help us spread the word, we've got 22 days left! You can forward this simple link:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://igg.me/at/mm8tet">igg.me/at/mm8tet</a><br />
<br />
Anyway, here's the video of me having some fun and "interviewing" Will and Tim from the Octet about the upcoming album:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0jtzKazMBDw" width="420"></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-62623919887199250322014-01-17T12:48:00.000-08:002014-01-17T12:50:36.666-08:00IndieGoGo + 2 ShowsHappy 2014! I bring big news all around! Firstly, I'm very excited to launch a <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-michael-mull-octet-record-an-album/x/311579" target="_blank">crowdfunding campaign</a> for the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpLa-etBjWKvW-1tXd3YUI1h0J-AzyTLi" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a>'s first album, via IndieGoGo. If you are unfamiliar with crowdfunding, it works as a modern-day patronage system for artists, entrepreneurs, and activists; people from all over the world can check out your project idea and contribute to help make it a reality! Best of all, those who contribute to our campaign can choose from all kinds of great rewards...you can see a full list on the <a href="http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/help-michael-mull-octet-record-an-album/x/311579" target="_blank">campaign page</a>. Watch the launch video below, and stay tuned for updates throughout the campaign:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/it63SSlXqIc" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
Next, I'm joining trumpeter/composer Connor McElwain on Monday night, 1/20, at Vitello's in Studio City. He always writes interesting music, and this is my first time to play on the frontline with him. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/409587479174061/" target="_blank">Here is the event on Facebook</a> with all the details.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXNITD6U9powL2fOIdhlysfz33tTUUAUGlJ1LrLm_OzNAg2bgeObfMFFtrJ0uXZjOIkVd4Io3t8EydJpleKq_D38cBGe21wFCMlJMUdL8fvmGUEfcxCY0idrxnYOBtImjpxbCHJ9daEBx/s1600/ConnorVitellos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXNITD6U9powL2fOIdhlysfz33tTUUAUGlJ1LrLm_OzNAg2bgeObfMFFtrJ0uXZjOIkVd4Io3t8EydJpleKq_D38cBGe21wFCMlJMUdL8fvmGUEfcxCY0idrxnYOBtImjpxbCHJ9daEBx/s1600/ConnorVitellos.jpg" height="400" width="308" /></a></div>
Finally, a week from today I am performing a much-anticipated concert with the Michael Mull Octet and the <a href="http://baba-rowan-large-ensemble.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">Rowan-Baba Large Ensemble</a>, whose music you really have to hear to believe. The concert is taking place at <a href="http://www.artsharela.org/" target="_blank">ArtShareLA</a>, a versatile and relatively young venue in Downtown LA, and I'm honored to be a part of both ensembles! As you may know, larger ensembles like these don't get to perform all the time, so catch us while you can. <b>This will actually be the Octet's first ALL AGES concert</b>, so come one and all! Only $10, 8pm.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/233830383461313/" target="_blank"> Check it out on Facebook</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD9TdLFdvGDoUz2WTW_GIvXcMvvZ1zZsONFqpu5qKmVp3tTQRnqimN_RcpuHt7VIOdMDLs2K_5plKgQZufMUAQUONnhI8tLylOL_uotXX97P_FTl9z_KxjIHGt29i_rolTfDKNWb4qBIA/s1600/ArtShareDigitalFlyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirD9TdLFdvGDoUz2WTW_GIvXcMvvZ1zZsONFqpu5qKmVp3tTQRnqimN_RcpuHt7VIOdMDLs2K_5plKgQZufMUAQUONnhI8tLylOL_uotXX97P_FTl9z_KxjIHGt29i_rolTfDKNWb4qBIA/s1600/ArtShareDigitalFlyer.jpg" height="251" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-61292634115113231052013-12-06T15:40:00.000-08:002013-12-06T15:40:46.192-08:00Hidden Remedies 12/18/13I had a great rehearsal this morning with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZy_Pt9JfY8" target="_blank">Frank Silva</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YyfHQIQ29e0" target="_blank">Dave Tranchina</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPnzjkIAvD8" target="_blank">Mike Lockwood</a> for a show at the <a href="http://bluewhalemusic.com/" target="_blank">Blue Whale</a> on Wednesday, December 18th. We are stretching out on a lot of Frank's original compositions, one from Mike Lockwood, and a couple of mine as well. The concert is a triple party: not only a show, but a CD release of <i>Hidden Remedies</i>, recorded in April this year and now a finished product for you to hear! It's also Frank's birthday...so come celebrate with us, we're hanging late! Get those <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/703602146331831/" target="_blank">details on facebook here</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiou0Wyj4BVZN1F-aiA9tZmDxa7sntklI7BJvN6qhkBhA40C_t4N0m3yBC947Bu9AZc3sci-31KvZm5YJCLizdcHHxsK2daO2l0i_88Rlr97dsyGU5YITj-MM5dBsOShi-qvyDtbj69t7JS/s1600/frack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiou0Wyj4BVZN1F-aiA9tZmDxa7sntklI7BJvN6qhkBhA40C_t4N0m3yBC947Bu9AZc3sci-31KvZm5YJCLizdcHHxsK2daO2l0i_88Rlr97dsyGU5YITj-MM5dBsOShi-qvyDtbj69t7JS/s400/frack.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike, Dave, Frank and me. It took all four of us to screw in that lightbulb.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The quartet show is looking like my last show of 2013, but January will be full of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAYS56FOWUI" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> performances as we gear up for our recording session in February. We will be playing in Woodland Hills, a house concert in Highland Park, and sharing what promises to be an amazing night at ArtShareLA with the Baba-Rowan Large Ensemble on January 24th! Dates for the first two shows are TBD, so stay in touch here and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">follow the Octet on facebook</a>. We will be kicking off the new year with a crowd-funding campaign to help us make the recording, so think about maybe buying yourself a late Christmas present...? Details and more exciting news coming soon!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-30704452948901326262013-11-14T10:54:00.000-08:002013-11-14T10:54:46.848-08:00Video from Blue Whale 10/25/13I compiled some memorable moments from the last <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> show, featuring the soloists of the evening. Stay in touch at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet">www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet</a> as we near recording our first album in February 2014!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eAYS56FOWUI" width="420"></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-7705959341398428402013-11-12T01:23:00.003-08:002013-11-12T01:24:19.917-08:00The WorksWanted to share some news blurbs:<br />
<br />
- Michael Mull Octet show at the Blue Whale 10/25 went great, with our friends <a href="http://www.adamkromelow.com/html/about.php?psi=28" target="_blank">KROM</a> making the first set a memorable one; it was there last show after a few weeks on the road, so they were tight! I'm compiling some video of the Octet from the show and will slap it up here as soon as I can.<br />
<br />
- The following weekend, I found myself playing on my Central Coast home turf with <a href="http://peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a>, and then up a bit farther in San Jose. Great crowds for both events, much line-dancing and get-downing, trash-talking (in the van), and gracious hosting in both locales. We'll be back, and next time with the new record in tow (due out in early 2014)!<br />
<br />
- Speaking of new records, there is going to be a CD release for a quartet led by tenor saxo-blaster Frank Silva (of Octet fame....?) on December 18th at the Blue Whale. The group is currently in name-limbo.<br />
<br />
- Speaking of new records (is there a tape-delay in here?), I'm hitting it hard and getting ready to record the Michael Mull Octet early next year. I will be setting up a fan-funding campaign about a month beforehand (January-ish), so if you like us and you know it, clap your hands (over your wallet)! But seriously folks, it's going to be a doozy...stay on top of things here, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">like us on Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/mmullmusic" target="_blank">follow on Twitter</a> if you're into that sort of thing. We love ya!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-29896096157426245242013-10-10T01:00:00.000-07:002013-10-10T01:01:01.115-07:00October HeatBeen off the ol' Blogger for a bit, sorry to be elusive. A quick update of happened and happening:<br />
<br />
I got to help out my good friend and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MichaelMullOctet" target="_blank">Michael Mull Octet</a> bandmate <a href="http://timfischermusic.com/" target="_blank">Tim Fischer</a> on a DMA lecture recital as he completes his Doctorate at USC. Luckily, for me that translated to playing great tunes with an even greater band that included Octet bassist Emilio Terranova and the illustrious <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_LaBarbera" target="_blank">Joe LaBarbera</a> on drums! Tim's lecture focused on the music of Miles Davis's first great quintet, styles in which Joe is an expert, not to mention being "two degrees of separation" from Miles himself --- it's hard to describe, but playing with a tight group like that is so "easy"!<br />
<br />
Beginning at the end of August, I am fortunate to be teaching Jazz Arranging and coach "combo class" at Cal State University Northridge this semester, and it has been a rewarding experience so far. This is my first time teaching in a full classroom setting, so I'm really trying to do it right and give the students a good balance of structure and freedom.<br />
<br />
Continuing the higher education trend, the Michael Mull Octet had the pleasure of doing a masterclass at CalArts, where I did my graduate work. This was an excellent experience all around, playing some new and older music and fielding thoughtful questions from both students and faculty. It was especially interesting for me to answer some of their questions, thinking and trying to describe aspects of my music and writing process for the Octet that I had never really sat down and considered, recognizing some of the reasons for my musical choices. Thank you to David Roitstein and Larry Koonse for hookin' it up, and to the students for being fantastic - hope to see you at a show soon!<br />
<br />
<i>SPEAKING OF OCTET SHOWS WHATSTHATYOUSAY? </i>Yes, the Michael Mull Octet is going to de-blubber the Blue Whale once again on <b>Friday, October 25th</b>, this time with the help of NYC-based trio <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Krommusic" target="_blank">KROM</a>. They play some remarkable and fresh music, so this is a date to make if at all possible! Mark them calendars and cave walls, more details to come. In the near October future:<br />
<br />
<b>Fri 10/18 - River Song and Walsh Set Trio @ ArtistShare LA</b> (I'm not in this but GO SEE IT and thank me later) 8pm <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/367428453387824/">https://www.facebook.com/events/367428453387824/</a><br />
<br />
<b>Sat 10/19 - Orkestar MEZE @ 4th Annual CalArts Wild Beast Concert Series: </b>In other words, a FREE dance party...<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/515180121898672/">https://www.facebook.com/events/515180121898672/</a> 6:00pm<br />
<br />
<b>Thurs 10/24 - Mahadev @ The Crest Bar in La Crescenta: </b>also featuring Fumosonic and Bubbeleh, 8pm (Mahadev around 10pm)<br />
<br />
<b>Fri 10/25 - Michael Mull Octet and KROM @ Blue Whale: </b>9pm, 21+ and only $10 for both sets, no minimum. Check back here soon or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/412626625505040/" target="_blank">on facebook</a> for more details.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-9311970705006193652013-08-09T15:57:00.000-07:002013-08-09T15:57:57.075-07:00MEZE @ El Cid Tonight 8/9/13Last minute post, folks! <a href="http://peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> is going into the studio next week to record some incredibly grooving new music for our sophomore release! Come celebrate with us and hear some of the new tunes, performed live in public <b>for the very first time</b>. Two other fantastic bands are warming up the room before us, Klezmer junkies <a href="http://www.jewishsharkattack.com/" target="_blank">Bubbeleh</a> and techy-world-jazz wizards <a href="http://orangetulipconspiracy.com/" target="_blank">Orange Tulip Conspiracy</a>. The show starts at 9pm, but if you can't make it until "after hours", don't despair!!! Orkestar MEZE takes the stage at 11pm, and we play until last call. <b>Tell them you are here to see MEZE!</b><br />
<br />
<u><b>Orkestar MEZE/Orange Tulip Conspiracy/Bubbeleh</b></u><br />
El Cid<br />
4212 W Sunset Blvd<br />
Doors at 9pm, MEZE at 11pm<br />
$10, 21+ only<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/162774963907978/?ref=br_tf" target="_blank">Facebook it!</a><br />
<br />
Bring your belly-dancing skills...there are prizes to be won at the classic Orkestar MEZE belly-dancing contest during our set!<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-89077930697233243182013-08-01T15:25:00.002-07:002013-08-09T15:46:58.454-07:00Meshuggah pt. 2 - TransfixionLong, long ago (in January 2012) I did a post where I shared and analyzed a transcription of Meshuggah guitarist Fredrik Thordendal's solo on a track called "Beneath". <a href="http://michaelmullmusic.blogspot.com/2012/01/meshuggah-pt-1-beneath.html" target="_blank">You can check that post out here</a>. If this is the first you are hearing of Meshuggah, or of my interest in them, I recommend you read the prior post before diving in here. I am presenting another solo today, with a third on the way (this time I mean it, I swear!).<br />
<iframe frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F103516385" width="100%"></iframe>
Today we will look at Thordendal's solo on "Transfixion", a song from the same album as "<a href="http://michaelmullmusic.blogspot.com/2012/01/meshuggah-pt-1-beneath.html" target="_blank">Beneath</a>", entitled <i>Destroy Erase Improve </i>(1995!). You can listen to the whole track <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzwnE32UtXA" target="_blank">here</a>. The guitar solo begins at 1:40 on the full track. Spend some time just listening to the groove and the solo - follow along with the transcription to get used to how the rhythm guitar part (bottom staff) emphasizes different beats in the 2-bar repeating phrase. This riff is much less complex than a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkrjE4QRsys" target="_blank">"typical" Meshuggah riff</a>, but it makes for easier following-along on a very complex solo. Let's take a look (I recommend saving the pic to your desktop so you can zoom in with a picture viewing program):<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimP94WxoC2IQ-H8EkzPBxcgxQH_kN89PuCJNaEc5yuoOesmuNrrfOlpxWvMuI2PvJR3xolStD6zcS856JjvKqMYVleIcu5zH7Mv2wGOFRwYlTo3d0g3bSxtldOdq63y3UGiwyz3KVmRI8s/s1600/Transfixion.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimP94WxoC2IQ-H8EkzPBxcgxQH_kN89PuCJNaEc5yuoOesmuNrrfOlpxWvMuI2PvJR3xolStD6zcS856JjvKqMYVleIcu5zH7Mv2wGOFRwYlTo3d0g3bSxtldOdq63y3UGiwyz3KVmRI8s/s320/Transfixion.gif" width="247" /></a></div>
Unlike the previous post, this is a very difficult solo to discuss harmonically, probably because it seems not to be about that at all. To me, this solo is all about shape - there is a lot of twisting and turning, and what you might call spiraling. From my limited knowledge of guitar techniques, I am fairly certain that the middle to the end of the solo (excluding, probably, the last few beats) is performed by tapping, which seems very visual and lends itself toward shapes. Thordendal goes mad-scientist on this one...<br />
<br />
Taking a look at the first couple of interjections in relationship to the rhythm guitar riff, Thordendal shifts major to phrygian minor to an Eb/C# sound, and then completely departs. The beginning of m.4 hints at a whole-tone sound and jumps up to what I would call a "funky" phrase that lands on a B on the last eighth-note of the measure. This "lick" could be described in the diminished mode (respelled as C#-E#-G-A#-B, it fits the profile of C#13 with a flatted fifth), and introduces the diminished sound to the solo, to be expanded later. Thordendal hangs onto the "funky lick", an eighth-note earlier and isolated (m.5), and then begins, twists, and replays it once more ("fakeout", m.6).<br />
<br />
M.7 is where the plane takes off - dropping almost three octaves from his last note, Thordendal digs into the diminished sound more fully, but with a slightly different selection of tones from the same diminished scale (looks like a tritone away from the previous set, G-B-C#-E-F). Beginning in m.8 we see a definitive 6-note shape appear (slurs are used for discussion and don't indicate any emphasis in the performance). Compare the second and third phrases, marked <b><i>a</i></b> and <i><b>a'</b> </i>respectively - they are identical except that in <b><i>a' </i></b>Thordendal switches the first two notes (E and Bb) and places the E an octave higher, setting up the fully formed, prevailing shape for the next 3 measures (note also that here the rhythm guitar "opens up" from palm-muted to ringing notes, highlighted brilliantly by this high-register pattern). This shape continues to develop and alter slightly, as labeled, and upon the introduction of Eb's in the phrase marked <i style="font-weight: bold;">c''</i>, the melody departs from the diminished sound to what we can affectionately call "no man's land".<br />
<br />
The rest of the solo spirals upward until another shape is revealed in m.14, this time a group of nine that is played three times, transposed up a half step each time. The third time, the final interval is changed to a major 3rd instead of a major 2nd, setting up another wild line that both concludes the rising chromaticism (G to Ab in m.15) and reaches the highest pitch in the solo (4 ledger-line G). It is worth noting that from the G to Ab resolution, Thordendal's line leaps outward (wider intervals), and seems to "close", with shrinking intervals all the way up to the last note.<br />
<br />
I'll finish up with a general impression. The lack of a harmonic center in this solo is a highlight for Thordendal's ability to give identity through shape- and rhythm-based phrasing; the first two short phrases of the solo end with an upward leap of a 5th, and every subsequent phrase-ending is a downward-leaping tritone, every time landing on a strong downbeat (with the exception of m.4 ending on the "& of 4). The effect is a solo that is outwardly chaotic with a deeper, funky sensibility underneath. I'd love to hear other ideas, thoughts, and comments from readers. Thank you for reading and keep your eyes here - next up, a Meshuggah "classic" off of the <i>Chaosphere</i> album!<br />
<br />Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-65403836321304804192013-07-11T23:51:00.002-07:002013-07-11T23:51:49.195-07:00MEZE Marquee<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvE8IUNaV4psVQf1AwHTbw5VIpKgVLqQiW6ZyOjbsdlutPyYk_HNfSSmES_V15xS53FQhp4M_X1d4oFxy5lArdXfgug-fCyQKvo9qyVd-kvQUC2jFFbn_yrPcb1qcpvlTb4IN1cwHqHQ8f/s1600/meze+marquee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvE8IUNaV4psVQf1AwHTbw5VIpKgVLqQiW6ZyOjbsdlutPyYk_HNfSSmES_V15xS53FQhp4M_X1d4oFxy5lArdXfgug-fCyQKvo9qyVd-kvQUC2jFFbn_yrPcb1qcpvlTb4IN1cwHqHQ8f/s400/meze+marquee.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Only 2 days away! <u><b>Email names to peasantfunk@gmail.com for the FREE guest list</b></u>! Orkestar MEZE rocks the stage at 9pm...Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-71689674114028766352013-07-09T17:05:00.002-07:002013-07-09T17:06:30.018-07:00FREE SHOW - Orkestar MEZE at House of BluesJoin <a href="http://www.peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> for an absolutely <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/562520363791238/?fref=ts" target="_blank">FREE show this Saturday 7/13 on the famed House of Blues main stage</a>! Here's the trick - you still have to get tickets to get in. <b>Just email <u>peasantfunk@gmail.com</u> with your address and the number of tickets you want</b>. That's it. FREE! If we can't mail them to you in time, we'll find another way to get them to you at the show! Look what happened last time we explodified the HOB mainstage:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fPOb9pyE96c" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
We have another amazing guest this time around - <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxOHS3zWiLg" target="_blank">K'noup from VIZA</a>, a longtime friend of Orkestar MEZE and a helluva singer. We will be performing a song of his, a slamming Greek MEZE staple tune, and some edgy Bulgarian pop songs with a MEZE "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlg9wbLIJ2w" target="_blank">tvist</a>". Don't miss this one! Details below:<br />
<br />
<u><b>Orkestar MEZE feat. K'noup @ House of Blues Sunset</b></u><br />
Saturday July 13th, 2013<br />
9:00pm, one set only<br />
<b>FREE</b> (email peasantfunk@gmail.com for tickets)<br />
ages 18+<br />
8430 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/562520363791238/?fref=ts" target="_blank">RSVP on Facebook</a>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-2631444919523370922013-06-21T13:02:00.001-07:002013-06-21T13:05:37.316-07:00Mahadev in Concert 6/22<span class="Apple-style-span">I've had a great summer so far - got to experience Bjork at the Hollywood Bowl a couple weeks ago!</span><span class="Apple-style-span"> Had a rip-snorting good time playing with my Trio last Saturday for the <a href="http://bluewhalemusic.com/" target="_blank">Blue Whale</a> outdoor concert series, and very cool to play with amazing drummer Gene Coye for the first time. Sticking around after that to hear the Bennie Maupin trio (with Darek Oles and Tootie Heath) was icing on the trio cake...what a sound! Here's a nice shot of my trio having fun, with my bass clarinet nabbing background props.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDw-ROO2KBgBDZdOui6nDKRtgSWCNM_02fBZcngtxNH7zAegyIhNBIEotz7aHzGQzoEHdOFClQ9JVY86BUTQI6j8hmsDC54PB5eLabEZFC-axWzckbMlGkjx9-7dFFRFa0CZiocoMX2mKS/s1600/trio+with+gene.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDw-ROO2KBgBDZdOui6nDKRtgSWCNM_02fBZcngtxNH7zAegyIhNBIEotz7aHzGQzoEHdOFClQ9JVY86BUTQI6j8hmsDC54PB5eLabEZFC-axWzckbMlGkjx9-7dFFRFa0CZiocoMX2mKS/s400/trio+with+gene.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Tomorrow night, Saturday 6/22, I'm performing at another outdoor concert series, this time in Thousand Oaks and with world music mash-up masters <a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/album/mahadev" target="_blank">Mahadev</a>. Check <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/469167366497689/?fref=ts" target="_blank">this facebook link</a> for addresses, ticket info, and more. Show starts at 7pm at the beautiful Hillcrest Center for the Arts, right up the hill from The Oaks mall area.<br />
<br />
<iframe seamless="" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/album=1066783595/size=medium/bgcol=ffffff/linkcol=0687f5/t=5/transparent=true/" style="border: 0; height: 120px; width: 450px;"><a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/album/mahadev">Mahadev by Mahadev</a></iframe>
Finally, I've jumped on the Twitter-wagon - follow me if you please <a href="https://twitter.com/mmullmusic" target="_blank">@mmullmusic</a>. I'll be updating there about shows and events, as well as keeping tabs on the progress of recording a couple different albums throughout the rest of the year, including one for my Octet (in the planning stages), and one for Orkestar MEZE. <a href="http://igg.me/at/meze" target="_blank">We have a fundraising campaign, please take a look and watch our video</a>!<br />
<br />
That's it for now, stay friendly here, on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/michaelmullmusic" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and on Twitter for some great music coming down the tubes!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-50176382284619622432013-06-10T19:34:00.000-07:002013-06-10T19:34:41.834-07:00Michael Mull Trio + Gene Coye, Tempest TwinsReached my 27th year on June 7th last week, and am ready to keep the ball rolling along with perpetually increasing musication! <a href="http://peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> played some super funky sets down in San Diego, the Michael Mull Octet is sounding incredible on some new music, and the Tempest Twins are officially launched on <a href="http://tempesttwins.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">bandcamp</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khb9Wxa4I_Q" target="_blank">youtube</a>! Get launched while you read the rest of the post - play the track below:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowtransparency="true" frameborder="0" height="100" src="http://bandcamp.com/EmbeddedPlayer/v=2/track=3515567418/size=venti/bgcol=FFFFFF/linkcol=0687f5/" style="display: block; height: 100px; position: relative; width: 400px;" width="400"><a href="http://tempesttwins.bandcamp.com/track/rugged-and-raw">Rugged and Raw by Tempest Twins</a></iframe><br />
I'm excited to announce that I'll be playing a <a href="http://michaelmullmusic.bandcamp.com/" target="_blank">Michael Mull Trio</a> gig at the Blue Whale's new outdoor series this <b>Saturday, June 15th at 6:30pm! </b>Shows have been taking place outside in the Weller Court area every Saturday and are ALL AGES and FREE. The Trio will feature a special guest this time around, the illustrious <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icgej0_AvmQ" target="_blank">Gene Coye</a> on drums! I saw Gene play shortly after I moved to LA and have been hoping to play with him since...come and see it go down if you are in the LA area. Did I mention it's FREE?! Bennie Maupin Trio is playing upstairs at the Whale after we play, so stick around!<br />
<br />
And a shout-out: if you are in the Valley on Saturday the 15th, you might like to go to Barclay's in Northridge and catch <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/496553460400632/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Ami & The Marissa Calille Quartet</a> at 7pm!Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3890799842893674940.post-37806876308955534812013-05-14T17:35:00.001-07:002013-05-14T17:40:34.922-07:00Summer BeginsLong time since the last post...what a busy Spring it has been! Had a great Octet show at the Blue Whale, played a musical, did some fun sets with <a href="http://mahadev.bandcamp.com/album/mahadev" target="_blank">Mahadev</a>, and recorded with tenor saxophonist Frank Silva for a new record of his original music. It's going to be a rip-snorting record, and I even got a tune on there, so keep your eyes here for more info as it gets released.<br />
<br />
May is flying by, and I have a few shows with <a href="http://peasantfunk.com/" target="_blank">Orkestar MEZE</a> coming up. First, this <b>Sunday 5/19</b> we are playing at the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/493089374091360/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Annual Bulgarian Festival</a> in Culver City. It is a four-hour event with tons of other music, delicious Bulgarian food, arts, dance, and all that wonderful festival stuff! Best of all, pre-sale tickets can be purchased online for <b>only $11</b>. Eleven bucks. Yeah! Still only $20 at the door, but get them early and pick them up at the venue. Event runs from 12:30 to 4:30pm at the <b>Veterans Memorial Complex, 4117 Overland Ave, Culver City 90230.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
A week later, on <b>Saturday 5/25</b>, we are driving the plow and mules down to sunny San Diego (albeit with a somewhat downsized MEZE) to play a small daytime festival, and then rock the <a href="http://theturquoise.com/wordpress/" target="_blank">Turquoise Bar</a> at night! We'd love to meet some new SD Peasants, so please tell your friends and enemies to come check us out.<br />
<br />
Lots of other good stuff in the planning stages right now...stay in touch! Here's Orkestar MEZE with the incredible Ellis Hall in March!<br />
<br />
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/fPOb9pyE96c" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Michael Mullhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12762012853844695752noreply@blogger.com0